UK Statement for the Interactive Dialogue on the OHCHR report on technical assistance for South Sudan. Delivered by the UK Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.
Madame Vice President,
We are grateful for today's update and commend OHCHR's continued provision of technical assistance in South Sudan.
As we have heard today, the situation in South Sudan is extremely grave.
We are deeply concerned by the increase in fighting in recent weeks. Aerial bombardments have killed civilians, and over 63,000 people are newly displaced. The arrest of the First Vice President, Riek Machar is troubling.
President Kiir and all leaders with control or influence over armed groups must order an immediate ceasefire to prevent the collapse of the peace agreement - and a tragic return to full-scale conflict.
Legislation on transitional justice institutions has now been passed. But these have not yet come into existence. Elections have also been postponed, further delaying democracy, accountability and peace in South Sudan.
The technical assistance and capacity building provided by OHCHR plays an important role. Alongside this, it is clear that the independent scrutiny of the human rights situation provided by the Commission for Human Rights is as vital today as when it was established in 2016.
In conclusion, we firmly believe it is time for the peaceful and democratic future promised to the people of South Sudan to be realised.
Thank you.
